Socket preservation is a critical procedure following a tooth extraction, vital for maintaining the integrity of the jawbone and ensuring the best possible foundation for future dental restorations, including dental implants. At Metro West Orthodontics & Periodontics, we understand the significance of this procedure and are dedicated to providing our patients with the highest standard of care.
When a tooth is removed, whether due to severe decay, gum disease, trauma or other dental issues, it leaves behind an empty space known as a socket. Without proper care, this socket can become a site for significant bone loss, compromising the structure of the jaw and affecting the appearance and health of your mouth. To prevent these issues, socket preservation is performed immediately after tooth extraction.
The Process of Socket Preservation: Socket preservation involves placing a bone graft within the tooth’s socket immediately after extraction. This graft can be made from different materials, including synthetic options or processed bone minerals, which serve as a scaffold for new bone growth. By filling the socket, the graft helps maintain the bone’s height and width, preventing the collapse of surrounding tissue and preserving the jaw’s natural contour.
After placing the graft material, our periodontists will cover the area with a protective barrier, often a biologically engineered collagen membrane. This membrane supports healing and guides the regeneration of bone within the socket. The site is then sutured closed to protect the graft and encourage the body’s natural healing process.
Over the following months, the graft material integrates with the patient’s bone, encouraging new bone growth and effectively preserving the jaw’s structure. This process not only maintains the aesthetics of your smile but also provides a stable foundation for future dental implants or other restorative procedures.
To learn more about socket preservation in La Vista, Nebraska, and schedule your consultation with Dr. Takanari Miyamoto or Dr. Melissa Lang, please contact Metro West Orthodontics & Periodontics today at 402-614-7022. We are committed to helping you regain your oral health, function and smile.
402-614-7022